Brussels, 31/08/2011 (Agence Europe) - Good but could do better. This is more or less the gist of the analysis of the Sixth Environment Action Programme at the end of its final evaluation. The Commission presented the results of this evaluation on 31 August. Major accomplishments in the field of the environment have been made during the past 10 years: the extension of the Natura 2000 network to protect many natural zones in the EU; the introduction of a comprehensive, innovative and strict chemicals policy (REACH); and policy action on climate change. However, there is progress to be made in implementing agreed EU objectives and rules. Does this mean that there will not be a seventh Environment Action Programme when this programme ends in 2012? It is still too early to tell. Janez Potoènik, European Commissioner for the Environment, is so far not saying anything on this. EU27 environment ministers and environmental NGOs, however, would like to see action put into practice (EUROPE 10282). For the time being, the focus is on the strict application of European environment law and preventing environmental damage, explained the Commissioner.
Potoènik said: “We have obtained good results - but not always as good as we hoped for. Better implementation of EU rules by member states is needed to close the gap between the 6th EAP's legislative ambitions and its end-results. Our goal now is to move from remediation to prevention of environmental degradation. The final assessment of the programme will prompt the launch of a wide public debate to define the orientations for EU environment policy over the next years.”
The final evaluation of the sixth action programme shows that the large majority of actions set out in the programme have been or are in the process of being completed. The seven thematic strategies - air, pesticides, waste prevention and recycling, natural resources, soil, marine environment and urban environment - have been developed in order to strengthen policy. The programme has been successful in providing an overarching framework for environment policy. It has served as a reference for member states and local authorities in defending environment policy against competing policy demands, securing appropriate funding and providing predictability for business. The programme has also helped to build political will for the adoption of effective targets and timetables. Nevertheless, inadequate implementation and transposition of the legislation by member states has restricted the programme's scope.
The results presented lay the basis for further dialogue between the Commission, Council, Parliament, civil society and business. The target is to build consensus on the strategic orientations for environment policy, to ensure broad ownership and to secure mobilisation for action. Against this background, the Commission will consider how a new environment action programme could best provide added value for environment policy. (A.N./transl.fl)